DAMIAN Matthew and Kevin Keen are to both be assistant managers at Southend United.

The duo both watched Blues’ under 23 side draw 1-1 with MK Dons at Boots & Laces yesterday.

And Echosport understands they will both be working closely alongside Shrimpers boss Chris Powell.

Matthew lined up for Chelsea, Luton Town, Crystal Palace, Bristol Rovers, Burnley and Northampton Town during his playing career and previously coached at Charlton Athletic, where he worked alongside Powell as first team coach.

The 47-year-old will now be heading to Roots Hall where he will be joined by former West Ham United midfielder Kevin Keen.

After finishing his playing career, Keen became a coach at West Ham when Powell was a player with the Hammers and he held a number of varying roles while at Upton Park.

Keen joined as under 17 team coach and eventually progressed to work with the first team where he enjoyed three spells as caretaker manager.

Keen has also coached at West Brom, Liverpool, Reading and Crystal Palace and had a short spell in charge of Colchester United.

Echosport also understands ex West Ham striker Roger Cross is to also join the Shrimpers as head of recruitment in a new look managerial team.